Pep Guardiola took a major dig at Chelsea over their handling of manager Maurizio Sarri ahead of the Carabao Cup final.
Manchester City and Chelsea are set to face each other in the Carabao Cup final on Sunday.
In the previous meeting between the two sides two weeks ago, Guardiola’s men humbled Chelsea 6-0.
The result led to significant speculation over the future of Maurizio Sarri at Chelsea. The game was followed by another loss for the Blues – this time, to City’s neighbours Manchester United in the FA Cup.
Sarri had reportedly been given a three-game ultimatum after the loss to United. While Chelsea qualified for Europa League’s round-of-16 with 3-0 win over Malmo, the side awaits big games against Manchester City and Tottenham.
Pep Guardiola, who conspired the famous 6-0 win at the Etihad Stadium, seemingly rues the crushing victory now. He criticised the Chelsea hierarchy for lack of stability in the handling of their managers.
“The situation is a little bit different,” Guardiola began. “In my first year, the club never doubted me. It was never in the media that I’d be sacked if they lose this game or the other game. It never happened.
“Sometimes the situation is difficult and it needs time. The first season with Maurizio is the same. You need time but the people supported me here.”
He further expressed his surprise over the sacking of Antonio Conte – even wishing that he would prefer to not have won 6-0 against Chelsea now.
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“The players knew who the manager was and everybody is in the right situation. After that, you can win or lose but it is stable. That is the best way to build something for a long time, not just a short period.
“I’m surprised. I was surprised when [Antonio] Conte won the title and then everyone started saying that he’ll be sacked.
“I said wow, he just won the title. When we won 6-0, I was very happy but now I would prefer not have beaten them 6-0.”
